CVE-2022-20155 in Android
Summary
by MITRE • 06/15/2022
In ipu_core_jqs_msg_transport_kernel_write_sync of ipu-core-jqs-msg-transport.c, there is a possible use-after-free due to a race condition. This could lead to local escalation of privilege with no additional execution privileges needed. User interaction is not needed for exploitation.Product: AndroidVersions: Android kernelAndroid ID: A-176754369References: N/A
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/15/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-20155 resides within the Android kernel's ipu_core_jqs_msg_transport_kernel_write_sync function located in the ipu-core-jqs-msg-transport.c source file. This represents a critical use-after-free condition that emerges from a race condition inherent in the kernel's message transport mechanism for the IPU (Image Processing Unit) core. The flaw specifically affects the synchronization logic that governs kernel writes to the message transport layer, creating a temporal window where memory objects may be freed while still being referenced by concurrent operations.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from improper synchronization mechanisms within the kernel's message handling subsystem. When multiple threads or processes attempt to access the same message transport resources simultaneously, the race condition allows for a scenario where one thread frees a memory object while another thread continues to reference it. This use-after-free condition manifests in the kernel context, where the freed memory may be reallocated and accessed by subsequent operations, leading to unpredictable behavior that can be exploited by malicious actors. The vulnerability's classification as a local privilege escalation means that an attacker with minimal privileges can leverage this flaw to gain elevated system-level access.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-20155 extends beyond simple memory corruption, as it provides a direct pathway for local privilege escalation without requiring additional execution privileges or user interaction. This makes the vulnerability particularly dangerous in Android environments where kernel-level access can lead to complete system compromise. The attack surface is broad since the vulnerability affects the core kernel message transport mechanisms that are fundamental to Android's operation. The lack of user interaction requirements means that exploitation can occur automatically when the affected kernel components are exercised, potentially allowing for covert privilege escalation attacks that could remain undetected.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on addressing the underlying race condition through proper synchronization mechanisms. Kernel developers should implement robust locking primitives and memory management protocols to prevent the simultaneous access patterns that lead to the use-after-free condition. The fix typically involves ensuring that memory objects remain valid for the duration of all references, which may require implementing reference counting mechanisms or using atomic operations to manage concurrent access. Additionally, the vulnerability aligns with CWE-416, which specifically addresses use-after-free conditions, and may map to ATT&CK techniques involving privilege escalation through kernel exploitation. System administrators should prioritize applying the relevant kernel updates and patches provided by Android security teams, while also monitoring for any exploitation attempts that might leverage this vulnerability for unauthorized system access.